Connecting with Your Audience: Public Engagement Fundamentals

Engaging the public with plasma science and engineering is of utmost importance for advancing the field. Recent findings from a survey of APS membership reveal that nearly 70% of members have participated in public engagement activities, indicating a widespread recognition of its significance. However, it is concerning that only a small fraction of physicists receive training in effectively communicating and connecting with diverse audiences. The 2022 DPP Mini-Conference on Workforce Development Through Research-Based, Plasma-Focused Activities highlighted the urgent need for recognition and training, particularly in culturally responsive engagement with marginalized students.

In this invited talk, Dr. Claudia Fracchiolla, head of APS Public Engagement, will address the core principles of public engagement with physics, focusing on identifying gaps, needs, and interests in physics education for specific target audiences. This talk will cover essential topics, including effectively identifying and connecting with diverse audiences, establishing equitable partnerships, and ensuring alignment between goals, activities, and evaluation.

The primary objective of this talk is to empower scientists to develop public engagement activities that truly reflect the unique context of the communities they serve. It emphasizes the importance of inclusive practices and provides guidance to participants on how to foster equitable engagement. 

This talk is highly relevant to all members of the DPP community, irrespective of their prior experience with public engagement. By attending, participants will gain valuable insights and practical strategies to effectively engage with the public, thereby contributing to the advancement of plasma science and engineering in a more inclusive and impactful manner.